Politics and the Arts

The other day during a conversation with my partner about a posting on this site she said (approximately) "but that's politics, this site is about theatre." I also remember Molly Meldrum once saying. "There's no place in Rock music for politics" He was talking about Skyhooks "Over the Border" at the the time and I never could decide if he was being ironic or just Molly. Anyhoo, it got me thinking, I personally feel very strongly that all the arts should be political. WE should be screaming like wounded bulls over some of the issues going around at the moment and we don't seem to be. I have also heard it said that amateurs should just be in it to enjoy them selves and to entertain leaving politics and social conscience stuff up to the pro's. Another point I disagree with. We (the arts amateur pro or whatever) should in my humble opinion be a shining light seeking out issues in the dark corners of the nations psyche and bringing the spotlight of discussion and dissent to life. (sorry about that I can get a bit purple sometimes) Any comments or am I alone. I have to say I hope someone out there has a go it would be fun.